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Friday, June 15, 2012

West Virginia Celebrates State’s Birth

Out of the tumultuous American Civil War came the creation of a new state, and the only state to form as the result of secession from the Confederacy. President Abraham Lincoln issued a proclamation admitting that new state to the Union on June 20, 1863, and West Virginia was born.

On June 20, the Mountain State will turn 149 years old. In honor of West Virginia Day, a variety of celebratory events and activities have been scheduled across the state.

West Virginia Day is the perfect time of year for a picnic. Did you know that the world’s leading manufacturer of Kingsford barbecue briquettes is based in Parsons, W.Va.? Pack your cooler with Mister Bee potato chips and Budget $aver popsicles, two other products that are made in West Virginia.

While you’re on the road, stop for a visit at one of the interstate Welcome Centers and have a bite of birthday cake, or join Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin for celebrations at the Culture Center at the State Capitol Complex in Charleston.

Many of West Virginia’s state parks are offering special rates or activities for West Virginia Day. Featured activities include nature walks or historic presentations. At Cass Scenic Railroad, Shay #5, the official steam locomotive of West Virginia, will be on display at the depot for visitors to explore. Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park will have free birthday cake for guests. For more information, visit

If you’re passing through Lewisburg or Shepherdstown, take time to learn about two trees on the West Virginia Big Tree Register that have Civil War connections.

For details about the war that resulted in the state’s creation, visit the West Virginia Division of Tourism’s Civil War website, www.wvtourism.com/minisites/civilwar.aspx. Visitors will find information on Civil War-related events, sites and history.